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DOCTOR-OF-PHILOSOPHY in Extension Career Guidance And Student Welfare at Bharathiar University
Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Extension, Career Guidance, and Student Welfare at Bharathiar University Coimbatore?
This Extension, Career Guidance, and Student Welfare program at Bharathiar University focuses on equipping research scholars with advanced knowledge and practical skills to address the evolving needs of community outreach, professional development, and student support services within the Indian context. It delves into the socio-economic dynamics influencing vocational choices and welfare initiatives.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for professionals in educational administration, social work, human resources, and non-profit sectors seeking to enhance their research capabilities. It also attracts aspiring academics, career counsellors, and policy makers interested in contributing to youth development and welfare in India. Candidates typically possess a Master''''s degree in a related social science or management field.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue advanced careers in university extension services, career counselling centers, student welfare departments, or policy research organizations across India. Potential roles include research associates, program managers, or senior counselors. The research contributes to developing evidence-based practices vital for skill India initiatives and national education policies, impacting societal growth and individual empowerment.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Semester 1)
Diligently engage with the Research Methodology coursework, focusing on understanding qualitative and quantitative research designs, sampling techniques, and data analysis software. Attend workshops on academic writing and statistical tools like SPSS or R to build a strong theoretical and practical base.
Tools & Resources
Bharathiar University Library resources, NPTEL online courses on Research Methodology, SPSS/R tutorials, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A robust understanding of research methods is foundational for any Ph.D. scholar, directly impacting thesis quality, publishable papers, and future roles in academia or research institutions.
Deep Dive into Specialization Literature- (Semester 1-2)
Proactively identify and review seminal and contemporary research papers, books, and policy documents specifically related to Extension, Career Guidance, and Student Welfare in the Indian context. Regularly discuss readings with your supervisor and peers to refine your research problem.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Scopus, Google Scholar, UGC-CARE list journals, Bharathiar University e-resources, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
This builds expertise and allows for the identification of research gaps, crucial for developing an impactful thesis and becoming a thought leader in the specialized field.
Develop Academic Writing and Presentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Participate in university-level workshops on academic writing, scientific paper presentation, and thesis formatting. Practice presenting your research proposal or literature review findings to departmental faculty and fellow scholars to receive constructive feedback and enhance communication abilities.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly Premium, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, University writing center, Departmental colloquiums
Career Connection
Strong communication skills are vital for publishing research, presenting at conferences, and effectively disseminating your findings to a broader audience, which are key aspects of an academic or research career.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Interdisciplinary Seminars and Workshops- (Semester 2-4)
Actively participate in seminars organized by departments like Social Work, Education, or Psychology, which often touch upon aspects of career guidance, student welfare, or community extension. Seek opportunities to present your ongoing research and gather diverse perspectives.
Tools & Resources
University event calendars, Inter-departmental research groups, National/international webinars on social sciences
Career Connection
Broadens understanding beyond immediate discipline, fosters collaborative research, and enhances networking with experts in related fields, which is valuable for future interdisciplinary projects.
Secure Mentorship and Build a Professional Network- (Semester 2-4)
Beyond your primary supervisor, identify senior faculty members or industry professionals in extension services or career counseling who can offer additional guidance and support. Attend conferences and networking events to connect with other researchers and practitioners in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic conferences (e.g., Indian Social Science Congress), Professional associations (e.g., NHRD Network)
Career Connection
A strong network provides access to potential collaborations, job opportunities, and invaluable career advice, crucial for navigating the academic and professional landscape in India.
Initiate Pilot Studies or Data Collection- (Semester 3-5)
After finalizing your research proposal, conduct a pilot study or begin preliminary data collection. This hands-on experience refines research instruments, identifies potential challenges, and strengthens your understanding of fieldwork within the Indian socio-cultural context.
Tools & Resources
SurveyMonkey/Google Forms, Interview guides, Ethical approval protocols, University research grants for fieldwork
Career Connection
Practical experience in data collection and ethical considerations is highly valued in research roles and demonstrates your ability to execute research independently and responsibly.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize Thesis Writing and Chapter Completion- (Semester 4-6+)
Establish a strict writing schedule, setting achievable weekly or monthly goals for thesis chapters. Regularly share drafts with your supervisor for feedback and integrate revisions promptly. Focus on clear articulation of findings and their implications for Indian society and policy.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Word/LaTeX, Academic writing resources, Supervisor feedback, Writing accountability groups
Career Connection
Timely completion of the thesis is paramount for graduating and securing post-doctoral positions or academic roles. A well-written thesis showcases your rigorous research capabilities.
Publish in Reputable Journals and Present at Conferences- (Semester 4-6+)
Aim to publish at least 1-2 research papers from your thesis in UGC-CARE listed or peer-reviewed international journals. Present your findings at national and international conferences to gain visibility and receive feedback from the broader academic community.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission platforms, Conference abstract submission systems, University grants for travel
Career Connection
Publications and conference presentations are crucial for building an academic CV, securing post-doctoral fellowships, and enhancing your profile for faculty positions in India and abroad.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Career Transition- (Final Semester/Year)
Thoroughly prepare for your viva voce examination by reviewing your entire thesis, anticipating questions, and rehearsing your defense. Simultaneously, start exploring academic job markets, applying for research positions, or pursuing opportunities in relevant government or non-profit sectors in India.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with faculty, Career services workshops, Job portals like Naukri.com, Government job notifications
Career Connection
Successful thesis defense is the final step for degree completion. Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition into impactful roles that leverage your specialized Ph.D. expertise.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s Degree in any Faculty from Bharathiar University or an equivalent recognized university, with not less than 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/Differently Abled candidates)
Duration: Minimum 3 years (Full-time), 4 years (Part-time), with 1 semester of mandatory coursework
Credits: 12 credits for coursework Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDCW01 | Research Methodology | Core | 6 | Introduction to Research and Scientific Method, Research Problem, Hypothesis, and Research Design, Sampling Techniques and Methods of Data Collection, Data Analysis, Interpretation, and Statistical Tools, Report Writing, Ethics in Research, and Research Software Applications |
| PHDCW02 | Domain Specific Core Course | Core | 6 |
